Arsenal's Gael Clichy out to prove he's better than Patrice Evra

03 September 2010 09:42

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Big chance: Gael Clichy hopes to shine for France[LNB]Arsenal left back Gael Clichy has ready to take advantage of Patrice Evra's five-match France ban by showing he can match up to his Manchester United rival.[LNB]The Gunners star is expected to start in the Euro 2012 qualifier against Belarus on Friday in place of Evra, who captained Les Bleus during the World Cup debacle and was suspended for his part in a player revolt.[LNB]Despite his obvious talents, Clichy has been restricted to just five international caps because his Old Trafford rival's brilliance, but now comes an opportunity to turn the tables.[LNB]'I can't hide it, the door is slightly open,' said Clichy. 'I have a few months, a few training sessions and some games to show that I can settle in to the France team. [LNB]'But we are talking about a player (Evra) who has played about 30 times for France, Pat can't go out like that.[LNB]'Competition is fierce, as there is Aly Cissokho and Benedict Tremoulinas who are fighting for a spot. Only the best person will play.[LNB]'I am eager to show the coach that I can bring something to the group. If I am playing on Friday, I will give it my all.'[LNB] Out: Patrice Evra was banned for five games for his part in the players' revolt[LNB]Clichy has been encouraged by the training-ground approach of new boss Laurent Blanc, who replaced the much-maligned Raymond Domenech after South Africa 2010.[LNB]'The benchmark is Barcelona,' said the defender. 'It's easy to say, but with practice... It is with good football that we can win games.[LNB]'It suits my qualities. At Arsenal, we are already playing attacking football, staying organised. I'm not a defender who will stay in my portion of the pitch and contain my opponent. [LNB]'I'm an attacking player who is involved. But we have to stay focused and not lose sight of the fact that a defender is primarily there to stop a goal being scored.'[LNB] Thomas Vermaelen says he's not bothered about scoring goals for ArsenalArsenal set to move for Japanese youngster Ryo MiyaichiARSENAL FC